We hear many stories of the renewal of natural lands after a devastating wildfire, but this photo of an older burn area in New Mexico is particularly striking. It’s from Geraint Smith Photography in Taos, New Mexico. It shows the Valle Vidal Unit of New Mexico’s Carson National Forest, which, like many parts of the U.S. west, has had its share of wildfires in recent years.

The fires in the U.S. West have been exacerbated by hot, dry summertime conditions. They’re often driven by wind. Later, even a little rain can help rejuvenate a natural area (although human structures may be lost).

Earlier this summer, beginning around June, Stage 1 fire restrictions were in effect at Carson National Forest. As the rains came around mid-July 2013, restrictions were lifted.

Thank you, Geraint!

The red “A” marks the location of Carson National Forest in New Mexico. Map via Google.

Deborah Byrd created the EarthSky radio series in 1991 and founded EarthSky.org in 1994. Today, she serves as Editor-in-Chief of this website. She has won a galaxy of awards from the broadcasting and science communities, including having an asteroid named 3505 Byrd in her honor. A science communicator and educator since 1976, Byrd believes in science as a force for good in the world and a vital tool for the 21st century. "Being an EarthSky editor is like hosting a big global party for cool nature-lovers," she says.